• M&A: New York City-based Standard Media Group LLC, a new investor-backed media company, has entered into a definitive agreement with Sinclair Broadcast Group Inc. of Hunt Valley, Md. to acquire Grand Rapids-based Fox 17 WXMI and eight other stations around the country. The $441.7 million cash deal would create a new media company affiliated with Standard General LP, an SEC-registered investment adviser that manages capital for public and private pension plans, endowments, foundations, and high net worth individuals. The deal, which is subject to regulatory approval, is expected to close in conjunction with the Sinclair-Tribune transaction. As MiBiz previously reported, Sinclair is trying to appease government regulators in a bid to finalize its $3.9 billion acquisition of Chicago-based Tribune Media Co., which currently owns Fox 17.

• M&A: Bridgman-based Kruger Plastic Products has been acquired by Chicago-based private equity firm HC Private Investments, according to a statement. Kruger President Pat Brandstatter and VP of Engineering Dirk Kruger retained “significant stakes” in the custom injection molding company. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Grand Rapids-based Varnum LLP served as legal counsel to Kruger, which was advised on the transaction by BlueWater Partners LLC, a Grand Rapids-based investment banking and consulting firm.

• M&A: Grand Rapids-based fuel distributor Crystal Flash Inc. has expanded its geographic footprint into Southeast Michigan with the acquisition of Adrian-based Lenawee Farm Bureau Oil Cooperative, which has more than 500 customers. Two employees will stay on with Crystal Flash, according to a statement. Terms of the deal, which was finalized this month, were not disclosed. Lenawee County Farm Bureau Oil Cooperative serves agricultural, commercial, construction and home heating oil customers. Grand Rapids-based Charter Capital Partners served as financial adviser to Crystal Flash on the deal. The employee-owned company employs 250 people at 15 locations in Michigan.